Council on Legislation

Exciting Changes from the 2016 Council on Legislation

The triennial Rotary Council on Legislation (COL), Rotary’s legislature, was held in April 2016 in Chicago. Meeting in the spring every three years, the Council is made up of one representative from every Rotary district. The purpose of the Council is to consider proposals by Rotary clubs, districts and the RI Board for changes in the way Rotary operates at every level of the organization.

At the 2016 Council, identified as one of the most progressive in Rotary’s history, many actions were taken to strengthen Rotary as we look to the future. There are many exciting new opportunities for districts and clubs, including significant flexibility changes so that a club can make its own decisions on matters ranging from meeting frequency and attendance to membership types to best meet the needs of its community. You can find the official report of action and other helpful documents on the links below or on the Rotary International site. It was also sent to clubs in June.

Clubs have the opportunity to oppose approved legislation during the following two months through a form included in the report and posted below. Council actions went into effect 1 July.

You are highly encouraged to hold a discussion of Council actions with your club at an upcoming meeting or at its next assembly, and decide actions your club will take to benefit from the new flexibility options.

If you would like more information or support in helping clubs to make these changes, contact your district’s Council on Legislation representative or the Zone 24/32 Rotary Coordinator for your district.